Circus

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Circus Historically, games in ancient Rome involving horse and chariot races, gladiatorial combat, and wild animals; in modern times, a travelling show featuring animals and feats of human endurance and skill. The modern-day circus was initiated in 1768 by trick horseback rider Philip Astley (1742-1814), who built his own 'arena' in which to display his skills. the most famous 19th-c circuses were Barnum and Bailey's, Astley's and Spengler's. In recent times the shows of Bertram Mills, Billy Smart, and David Chipperfield have been popular, though suffering a decline in recent years. European and Asian circuses, such as those of Moscow and China, continue to provide spectacular shows, and tour regularly, as does Canada's Cirque du Soleil. >>

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